WILLARD “BILL” RUPERT
Willard “Bill” Rupert passed away on May 2, 2024, in Pueblo, Colorado.
Bill was born September 9, 1948, in Binghamton New York. He was one of two boys to Willard and Stella (Clees) Rupert. He graduated high school in 1967 and then moved to Trinidad Colorado in 1968 to start the ambulance service.
Later married Mary Grace (Sebastiani) Rupert on March 6, 1970. They moved to Raton in 1971 where he started with the Raton Fire Department until his retirement in 1997. During this time, he had two daughters, Jennifer and Stacey.
Bill had a love for intricate woodworking, making something special for everyone he encountered. He also enjoyed cooking & baking any type of dish. If you knew Bill, above all; STICKY BUNS! His love of photography and traveling inspired many stories that he would love to tell.
In his retirement years, his time was spent fishing or riding motorcycles with family & friends.
He was a pillar within the community, selfless and willing to help anyone in need. He served on many boards, volunteered in shelters, and clubs, and continued to educate upcoming medical students.
Bill is survived by his daughters Jennifer (Monica) and Stacey (Andy). His grandkids are Phillip (Ericka), Karrigian (Corey), and Jenesee (Cisco). Lifetime friend Mary Grace Rupert, his Goddaughter Sherri (Brad), and his cousin Cass.
His adopted grandkids Phyllis, Ryanna, Anthony, (Janice), Anthony Jr., Gabe (Alexis), and Amelia.
His dear friends Lee, Erlinda, Ned, Mary, Father Brasher, Kathy R and family, Kathy O, Diana, Barb, Mark, Glee, Zach, Jenny, Julous, Elizabeth, Pat, Richard, Liz, Val, and countless others.
He is preceded in death by his father Willard, mother Stella, and brother Fredrick “Butch” Rupert along with his lifelong friend Walt.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a charity that he was passionate about. The Raton Humane Society 448 Hereford Ave. Raton, NM 87740 or Alternative to Violence 124 Pecos Ave. Raton, NM 87740
A memorial service will be Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 1:00 PM at First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall 1501 South 4th St. Raton.
